The four Gospels offer a glimpse into Jesus’ life and His three-year earthly ministry. He chose twelve disciples, and many others followed Him. Most of Jesus’ miracles (Matt. 11:20) occurred around the Sea of Galilee.
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness.
- Matthew 9:35
Crowds gathered as He taught from a boat by the shore or in an open field. He also taught in various synagogues around the lake. One Sabbath, Jesus entered a synagogue and viewed a man with a deformed hand. His heart was filled with compassion as the Pharisees questioned Jesus, hoping to sabotage His ministry before the crowds.
Then Jesus went over to their synagogue, where he noticed a man with a deformed hand. The Pharisees asked Jesus, “Does the law permit a person to work by healing on the Sabbath?” (They were hoping he would say yes so they could bring charges against him.) And he answered, “If you had a sheep that fell into a well on the Sabbath, wouldn’t you work to pull it out? Of course, you would. And how much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Yes, the law permits a person to do good on the Sabbath.” Then he said to the man, “Hold out your hand.” So, the man held out his hand, and it was restored, just like the other one! Then the Pharisees called a meeting to plot how to kill Jesus.
- Matthew 12:9-14 (NLT)
Jesus Noticed People
Wherever Jesus went, He was attuned to the hurt, pain, suffering, and sorrow of the people. Jesus could heal individuals of diseases, deformities, and illnesses. Yet, He longed for a change of heart in those who flocked to hear His teachings and witness the many miracles He performed.
The Pharisees, regarded as the spiritual leaders of the people, ignored and dismissed the common crowds. Instead of demonstrating love and care for others, they maintained their legal self-righteousness with great pride and arrogance. These religious leaders viewed themselves as entitled and superior to others.
People Are Valuable
Jesus made this poignant statement: “And how much more valuable is a person than a sheep!” The religious leaders aimed to ensnare Jesus and demonstrate that His kingdom teachings contradicted the Hebrew Scriptures. They worked tirelessly, scheming and plotting in hopes of having Him put to death.
The four Gospels illustrate Jesus’ compassionate care and concern for the less fortunate. He ministered to, healed, and embraced those who came to Him with life-threatening diseases, illnesses, and various physical and emotional needs. The Pharisees questioned Jesus about the types of people He associated with, and He replied to them …
“Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent.”
- Luke 5:31-32 (NLT)
Head to Heart
Pause and reflect on Jesus’ statement: “And how much more valuable is a person than a sheep!” Friends, we are called to do good every day.
How can we embody the spirit of Jesus today? Let’s begin by paying attention to those around us. Take a moment to observe others. What emotions are reflected on their faces? Do you notice hurt or sorrow in their eyes? Share your smile and offer a kind word of encouragement.
Take a moment to listen to what’s happening in their lives and then pray with them. Write a note to show that you care. Bring a meal, flowers, or a plant to their home.
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Thank you Brenda !